India, July 22 -- At the preparation meeting for the upcoming Ganesh festival held by Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) on Monday, citizens and environmental groups took centre stage, urging stricter enforcement of sound pollution norms during the 10-day celebration.

Several participants, including women and senior citizens, said they were prepared to approach the court if the administration failed to act.

"Sound pollution rules are not being followed, and the administration is not enforcing them seriously," said Kalyani Mandke. She added that loud dhol-tasha performances at every mandal had made it difficult for residents, especially the elderly and ill, to cope.

Another participant, Hrishikesh Balgude, said, "People aren't against the...